Designer Spotlight: Erin Kleinberg Tees to Please

by Teen Vogue

For a young fashion designer just starting out, there are two major benchmarks to indicate that you're well on your way: a mention in the industry bible Women's Wear Daily, and a retail exclusive with a venerable retailer such as Barneys New York. Erin Kleinberg, a former W magazine intern, has achieved both this year with her eponymous casual-luxe line of embellished Lyocell t-shirts and tops.

"I felt a void in the market for versatile, wearable, comfortable tops, that are super easy with a vintage accessory component," says Kleinberg. So earlier this year she decided to launch her own line to fill this niche. And while she admits that entrepreneurship has been utterly life consuming, she has found the experience to be very satisfying. She has also learnt a lot about the business side of fashion in the past year. "Be strategic with the accounts you approach; know the brand, live the product, and decide where you fit into your particular niche market," advises Kleinberg to other budding entrepreneurs.

So what is next for this Canadian talent? "I have designed sunglasses for Spring 09 and I am delving into the leather market for Fall 09," reveals Kleinberg. We can't wait to see this brand grow!